In an unfortunate turn of events, a bishop from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles was shot dead and officials have begun investigating the cause of death. The incident comes amidst a series of ever-growing gun related deaths and injuries in the United States. Read to find out who the Los Angeles bishop David O’Connell was and his cause of death due to homicide.
LA Bishop shot dead
On February 18, 2023, the Los Angeles bishop David O’Connell was shot dead. According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the incident happened around 1PM local time in Hacienda Heights.
- The officials arrived at the scene of shooting just moments later. However, it was too late to save the LA Bishop as he succumbed to the gunshot wound on his chest. He was 69 years old.
- Archbishop Jose H. Gomez announced David O’Connell’s death during Mass on Saturday with utmost shock and sadness. The Catholic community of Los Angeles paid their respects and prayers to their slain bishop.
Cause of death
The LASD’s Homicide Bureau has initiated an investigation into the Los Angeles bishop’s cause of death as a homicide. Reports suggest that David O’Connell was fatally shot in his own home and therefore the cause of his death is suspicious.
The deputies have closed the crime scene from public usage and continue surveying the location for more evidence that would explain the Los Angeles Bishop’s cause of death by homicide.
Who is the Los Angeles Bishop?
David O’Connell served as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. He was named to this position by Pope Francis in 2015.
- Before his untimely death from the shooting, Bishop David O’Connell was known for his work in Los Angeles’ San Gabriel Pastoral Region.
- With over 45 years of service in the Catholic Church, the Ireland-native Bishop David O’Connell was an important figure in Los Angeles.
Tributes and reactions
Condolences have been pouring in from social media for the death of David O’Connell. The Los Angeles Catholic community is stunned by the mysterious cause of the Bishop’s death due to shooting.
Eternal rest grant to Bishop David O’Connell, O Lord; let perpetual light shine upon him.
Through the mercy of God, may the soul of this good priest and bishop rest in peace. Amen. pic.twitter.com/HKeqep9tCX
— Bishop Robert Reed 𓀦 (@BpRobertReed) February 19, 2023
High-ranking government officials from Los Angeles such as Supervisor Janice Hahn, former mayor Eric Garcetti, and major church authorities released statements to offer their condolences.
Gun violence in LA
Los Angeles Bishop David O’Connell contributed to advocating a wide variety of social causes in his Archdiocese such as helping the poor and immigrants. Ironically, the gunshot victim Bishop actively helped victims of gun violence.
A rosary is being said tonight outside the Hacienda Heights home where LA Auxiliary Bishop David O’Connell was found murdered yesterday. @lacatholics pic.twitter.com/Wc3CxR40HJ
— Angelus News (@AngelusNews) February 20, 2023
Gun violence has been a persistent issue in Los Angeles, with the city experiencing a high number of shootings and homicides over the years. Factors such as gang activity and drug trafficking have contributed to this rise.
Much work remains to be done to reduce gun violence in Los Angeles and ensure the safety of its residents. The death of the Los Angeles Bishop is a scary wake-up call.
RELATED NEWS: 1960s sex symbol Raquel Welch dies at 82 – Cause of death
You can also share any questions you have about the Los Angeles Bishop’s cause of death. Until then, stay with us here at Spiel Times for more content.
